4.3.4 : Health Risks

The Greenville University community commits to a set of principles that promote our ability to fulfill the university’s mission of that focus on the development of the whole person so that each student thrives spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, relationally, and physically as God created them to uniquely shape the world. One of these commitments is related to the use of drugs and alcohol.

As Christians, we believe that life is full, abundant, and free in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we abstain from whatever damages, destroys, or distorts His life in us. Illicit drugs are prime offenders. The abuse of alcohol or use of tobacco products can have equal or greater destructive effects; thus, we encourage abstaining from the use of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. Consequently, consumption of alcohol or use of tobacco on Greenville University property or at sponsored events is prohibited. While enrolled in Greenville University, traditional undergraduate members of the community will abstain from the consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. Further, all members of the community are to refrain from the use of illegal drugs and substances, or the use of prescription drugs not authorized by a physician. The lifestyle statement is listed earlier in this student handbook.

Under no circumstances does Greenville University condone drug abuse, underage drinking, alcohol abuse, or alcohol possession on campus. All students will be subject to federal, state, and local laws as well as appropriate disciplinary action as described in this student handbook.

The following is a list of examples of drugs of abuse and their health risks. This is not to be considered a complete list but serves as an example. This list can change at the discretion of the University.

 

Narcotics (Heroin, Morphine, Hydrocodone)

Effects: Euphoria, drowsiness, respiratory depression, constricted pupils, nausea
Effects of Overdose: Slow and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, possible death

 

Depressants (GHB, Liquid Ecstasy, Valium, Xanax, Halicion, Activan)

Effects: Slurred speech, disorientation, drunken behavior without odor of alcohol
Effects of Overdose: Shallow respirations, clammy skin, dilated pupils, weak and rapid pulse, coma, possible death

 

Stimulants (Cocaine, Amphetamine/Methamphetamine)

Effects: Increased alertness, excitation, euphoria, increased pulse and blood pressure, insomnia, loss of appetite
Effects of Overdose: Agitation, increased body temperature, hallucinations, possible death

 

Hallucinogens (Analogs, LSD, PCP, Angel Dust)

Effects: Heightened senses, teeth grinding and dehydration, illusions, and hallucinations
Effects of Overdose: Increased body temperature, electrolyte imbalance, possible cardiac arrest

 

Cannabis (Marijuana, Tetrahydrocannabinol, Hashish)

Effects: Euphoria, relaxed inhibitions, increased appetite, disorientation
Effects of Overdose: Fatigue, paranoia, possible psychosis
Anabolic Steroids (Testosterone)
Effects: Virilization, edema, testicular atrophy, gyneco-mastia, acne, aggressive behavior
Effects of Overdose: Unknown

 

Synthetic Drugs (Bath Salts, Synthetic Marijuana, K2, Spice, K3, K4 White Widow, et. al.)

Effects: LSD-like hallucinations, elevated blood pressure and heart rate
Effects of Overdose: Possible death
Inhalants (Amyl and Butyl Nitrate, pearls, poppers, rush, locker room)
Effects: Flushing, hypotension, headache
Effects of Overdose: Vomiting, respiratory depression, loss of conscious, possible death

 

Alcohol (Beer, wine, liquor)

Effects: Lowers inhibitions and brain functioning, judgment impaired, poor concentration, impaired coordination, increased heart rate
Effects of Overdose: Vomiting, unconsciousness, cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin, slow or irregular breathing, mental confusion, seizures, permanent brain damage, or death.

 

Drug and Alcohol Programs

In addition to providing various educational programs regarding alcohol and drug use throughout the course of each academic year, students may also get information regarding potential issues related to alcohol and/or drugs by contacting or https://www.greenville.edu/life-at-gu/community-life/student-success/counseling/